The London Daily News

Sports Desk

Joe Cole and Michael Ballack will be known as "former Chelsea players" at the of June when they will both be leaving for "pastures new".

Spurs are top of the pack of clubs ready to sign Joe Cole with Manchester United snapping at the heals of the midfielders also.

Sky Sports believe that Arsenal and Liverpool could also bid for Cole who is available on a "Bosman" to clubs.

A statement on the club's official website read: "We would like to thank him for his dedicated years of service and wish him well in his future career."

The German international captain Michael Ballack will not feature at the global showpiece having suffered an ankle injury during the FA Cup final victory over Portsmouth.

Chelsea added: "All at the club would like to place on record our thanks for his service and wish him luck for the future."